Best Places for Waterfront Dining

On March 2, 2018

By: Susan Axelrod Photography: Myriam Babin

What’s better than a meal with a view, especially when the view is of a bustling, blue water harbor? Watch fisherman bringing in their catch and ferries crossing Casco Bay from these waterfront restaurants.

Scales | Portland

This seafood-with-a-view establishment, from the unbeatable team of Dana Street and Sam Hayward, is as close to Portland’s working waterfront as you can get. Dishes featuring Maine’s best fish and shellfish are inventive and well-prepared, and the bar is a busy place, with an extensive wine list and signature cocktails named for local landmarks.

Boone’s Fish House and Oyster Room | Portland

Boone’s has a long legacy on Portland’s waterfront, and now chef-owner Harding Lee Smith is running the show. His menu features an extensive selection of updated seafood classics, including an enormous lobster roll, seafood Newburg served in a popover, and a fried scallop BLT.

DiMillo’s | Portland

A fixture on Portland’s waterfront and a multi-generational family business, DiMillo’s floating restaurant is always the answer when anyone asks where to go for the quintessential Maine lobster dinner. Every table offers up a stunning view of the harbor, and the outdoor foredeck puts you right on Portland Harbor. The bar is warm and welcoming all year-round.

North 43 Bistro | South Portland

A new addition to South Portland’s waterfront, North 43 Bistro sports big picture windows and two decks overlooking Casco Bay and the Portland skyline. Chef/co owner Stephanie Brown brings a creative touch to seafood and seasonal specialties, with global and local influences. Her business partner, Laura Argitis, contributes years of restaurant experience as owner of Old Port Sea Grill.

The Dockside Grill | Falmouth

Take in panoramic views of Casco Bay and watch the boats from the sprawling mahogany and stone bar at Dockside at Handy Boat Marina. Wall-to-wall glass folding doors are left open to the sweeping ocean breeze in fine weather. Lunch brings fresh and flavorful versions of lobster rolls and fish tacos; dinner offerings include steaks and more seafood specialties.

RiRa | Portland

With a recent renovation of the second floor, RíRá has seriously improved its dining scene. The big space sports stylish seating and an inviting fireplace, plus a spectacular view of Portland Harbor. The menu goes far beyond Old Country classics, with plenty of fresh seafood, local produce, and inventive takes on traditional dishes.

J’s Oyster | Portland

Located on Portland’s working waterfront, J’s is as classic and no-frills as it gets. Piles of raw oysters and steamed clams are served alongside generous drinks. This city mainstay is its own microcosm, resisting change amidst a sea of dining trends, and that’s just how the regulars like it.